F1 News: Former Driver Casts Doubt On Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes Contract - "Not Quite Settled In His Mind"

Former F1 driver David Coulthard has spoken out on Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes contract.

Former F1 driver David Coulthard has cast doubt over Lewis Hamilton's awaited contract with Mercedes saying that he is, "not quite settled in his mind."

The prolonged contract negotiations between the seven-time world champion and the Brackley-based squad have stirred up speculation. Coulthard believes that Hamilton may be having reservations about Mercedes' rate of progress. 

The former driver explained to Channel 4:

“We keep hearing it’s going to be sorted, but why isn’t it? It’s not like they need to get to know each other. They’ve won multiple world championships together.

“So, I think it shows that he’s just not quite settled in his mind as to, the upgrades are coming, they’re maybe making a little step forward, but they need to take a leap forward to be able to challenge for victories.”

He thinks Hamilton's quest to return to championship contention may be at the root of the hold-up.

In the face of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, Hamilton asserted that the financial aspects and duration of his contract had been agreed upon. He dismissed concerns about Mercedes' sporadic form and slow pace in catching up with Red Bull. Hamilton stated:

"That's not what I'm thinking. Before the end of the season, we'll be already well into the contract. I still have 100 per cent faith in this team.”

Despite the ongoing uncertainty, Hamilton expressed his hope to compete in F1 for at least another five years. He said:

"I'm hoping to be here a lot longer. I feel like I've got another five years in me at least, no? Let's see.”

“I don’t have the pen at the moment. But we are close," indicating that the deal with Mercedes is near completion.